Makelele Extends Term

34 year old Claude Makelele has extended his contract at Chelsea by an additional year. The new deal will see him remain at Stamford Bridge until 2009. Makelele’s contract was set to expire at the end of the season but this will keep the world cup finalist at the club until he is 36.

Makelele has won league titles in France and Spain together with a UEFA Champions League medal. Back in 2003 Chelsea splashed out £13.9 million to prise the player from Spanish La Liga side Real Madrid. Since his arrival he has been a key component in Chelsea’s success. 18 year old defender Sam Hutchinson has also extended his stay by signing a new four year contract.